Influence

In through the door comes Influence… And as it’s name suggests, it actually does influence other people! People who identify with this typology are bubbly, energetic beings who light up the room when they come in. They inspire, energize and like doing activities that involve a lot of people. They are, by default, the best entertainers. At the same time though, the spotlight can get to their heads, so if you’re looking to befriend an “I”, then you must remember this.

When I’m down, I call my “I” person. Why? I’ll give you 5 reasons: reason #1 – they genuinely like being around people; reason #2- they are open and emotionally honest, so that makes their advice one you can count on; reason #3 – by being optimistic, they manage to lift your spirits; reason #4 – it’s like they were born to give motivational speeches, that’s how good they are!; lastly, the reason why I have my “I” friend on speed dial – they have the best jokes! Remember that an Inspirer is typically renowned for his/her sense of humor!

On the less brighter side, such individuals may take things quite personally, because they have a bit too much concern for other people’s feelings. This can also make them want to withdraw in their own little corner if they feel rejected.

Remember when I said that “I’s” make friends quickly? Well, the downside is that these relationships can many times be superficial, so don’t go off thinking you’ve found your soulmate just yet!

Want tips for relating with an “I” personality type? Well, here they are:

Don’t address them with sir/madam or any other formal approaches

Relax and try to act friendly

Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings

Keep the conversation light

Give written details (you know how forgetful they can be when caught up in the moment!)

What you should expect from an Influencer:

constant, yet unintentional attempts to persuade you of things

need to be in the center of attention

idealized images of themselves and of the people around them

vulnerability to perceived rejection

real team spirit

According to Integrity Works Coaching, 25-30% of the population identifies with this personality type.

Remember … if you have strong I-Inspiring traits (or are in “I-mode”):

Get organized! It can be a challenge to get and stay organized if you are involved in a million things. Here is a simple way to be more organized … make a list! We have heard Dr. Rohm (also an “I” personality style) say many times that “a short pencil is better than a long memory.” Working off of a list will help you to not forget important things that might otherwise get lost in your busy life.

Stay focused! You might get organized, but staying focused is its own challenge. Each item on your list needs some time and attention – in other words, some focus. We suggest that you use your list and keep it with you. Your list can have anything (or anyone) on it that is important to you. Pick one item on your list. Focus on it for an hour or two. As the saying goes, inch-by-inch, it is a cinch. Yard-by-yard, it’s hard.

Be credible. This is a really-really-really important tip. Really! If you want to foster good relationships with others, it will be largely determined by how much they feel that they can count on you doing what you say you will do. D-Dominant personality styles will expect you to do what you say immediately (like yesterday). You’ll make a great impression if you jump right on a task. D’s love that. C-Cautious personalty styles may not expect you to follow through right away, but they will want you to do exactly what you said since that is their expectation. You can delight them by meeting every checkbox on their mental list. S-Supportive personality styles will really appreciate having a sense that they can trust you. That is what being a friend is all about.